Best Printer Brands to Avoid Manufacturer Roadblocks for Ink Refilling (2025)

Customer Question:

I am looking for a new printer/scanner for home use and have narrowed it down to the HP OfficeJet 8015e (HP 910 cartridge) and the Brother MFC-J1010DW (LC401 cartridge). I have been refilling HP cartridges for years, but I see more and more reviews about how manufacturers are making it difficult to use refilled cartridges due to software roadblocks. Which brand or printer do you recommend that allows for easier refilling without interference from manufacturer restrictions?

Answer:

Thank you for reaching out to us! We sincerely apologize for the delay in responding. We understand that selecting a new printer is an important decision, especially when considering long-term usability and cost efficiency. At BCH Technologies, we appreciate your engagement and support, particularly with our YouTube channel(https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback helps us continue developing technical content to assist users like you.

Now, let’s address your concern.

Manufacturer-Imposed Roadblocks on Refilling

You’re absolutely right to be cautious about printer manufacturers making it increasingly difficult to refill cartridges. Many brands employ tactics such as:

• Firmware updates that block third-party or refilled cartridges

• Digital Rights Management (DRM) chips preventing unauthorized ink use

• Authentication requirements that restrict printer functionality unless using OEM cartridges

• Subscription-based ink programs that lock you into expensive plans

Among the two models you mentioned, here’s what to expect:

HP OfficeJet 8015e – Avoid if You Plan to Refill

HP has some of the most restrictive policies regarding ink refilling. Here’s why:

1. Aggressive Firmware Updates: HP frequently releases updates that disable refilled or aftermarket cartridges.

2. Instant Ink Subscription Locks: Many HP printers require signing up for HP Instant Ink, which can permanently lock a printer into using only HP-brand cartridges.

3. Online Account Requirement: Many new HP models, including the HP+ series, require an HP account to even set up the printer, making it harder to bypass restrictions.

4. Integrated Printheads: HP’s cartridges include built-in printheads, meaning that a single refilled cartridge might work for only a short time before the printhead fails.

Brother MFC-J1010DW – A Better Choice for Refilling

Brother printers generally have fewer restrictions on ink refilling. Here’s why Brother is a better choice:

1. Less Restrictive Firmware Updates: Brother does release firmware updates, but they are far less aggressive in blocking refilled or third-party cartridges.

2. No Subscription Ink Program: Unlike HP, Brother does not require an ink subscription or online activation to function properly.

3. Refill & Aftermarket Friendly: Brother printers typically accept refilled cartridges with minimal interference. The worst you might experience is a low ink warning, but the printer will still function.

4. Standalone Functionality: Brother printers do not require an online account for activation, making setup and usage much easier.

5. Longer Printhead Lifespan: Since Brother printers have separate ink tanks and built-in printheads, the printhead itself is not tied to a single cartridge’s lifespan. Proper maintenance will keep it running for years.

Alternative Refill-Friendly Brands

If refilling is your priority, here are other brands and models to consider:

• Epson EcoTank Series: Instead of cartridges, these printers use refillable ink tanks, eliminating the need for third-party chips.

• Canon Megatank Series: Similar to Epson’s EcoTank, these printers use bottle-based ink refills without software restrictions.

Final Recommendation

If you want a traditional cartridge-based printer, Brother MFC-J1010DW is the best choice over HP due to fewer firmware restrictions and refill-friendly features.

If you want a long-term refill solution, Epson EcoTank or Canon MegaTank are worth considering since they use bottled ink instead of chipped cartridges.

Final Thoughts

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. We are not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. However, we do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (BCH Printer Repair Service(https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service)). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before your printer can be dropped off.

Our services cover full printer repairs or specific part replacements, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates may not be the most economical option. Therefore, we highly recommend exploring self-help solutions via online research. You can start by checking our YouTube channel(https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search function next to “About” on the menu bar to find specific troubleshooting videos.

We appreciate your patience and support. If you have further questions, feel free to ask! Thank you for reaching out to BCH Technologies.